Rebuilding Boeddeker Park

A walk through the streets of Tenderloin reveals an unfortunate neighborhood with blocks of poverty, drug use, and troubled souls. It is a district in need of inspiration and engagement by local groups, governments and more prosperous nearby neighborhoods. One such intervention, organized by Trust For Public Land (TPL), is redevelopment of Boeddeker Park located in Tenderloin’s center.

Built in 1985 as a children’s playground, the park’s protective high fencing, brick walls, and obscured corners invited illegal activities and discouraged well-intentioned pedestrians. With the support of sponsors and other groups, TPL broke ground 17 months ago on a new, more open park with grassy fields, unimpeded views and updated play areas.

The park’s renovations are still ongoing and a recent walk-by showed a new modern children’s playground, low concrete retaining walls, and a partially constructed clubhouse. The new park, originally slated for a summer 2014 completion, has an ambitious goal to become a positive center of activity, leisure and enjoyment for the Tenderloin area.